Blog

We keep you up to date on the latest tax changes and news in the industry.

2026 Mileage Rate Updates: IRS Adjustments Explained

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has released its annual revision of the standard mileage rates for 2026, reflecting adjustments for inflation. These rates are crucial for taxpayers who use automobiles for business, charitable, medical, or moving purposes to calculate deductible expenses effectively.

As of January 1, 2026, the updated standard mileage rates for different purposes are as follows:

  • 72.5 cents per mile for business use, including a 35-cent-per-mile allocation for depreciation, marking an increase from 70 cents per mile in 2025.

  • 20.5 cents per mile for medical or specific moving expenses, slightly reduced from 21 cents per mile last year.

  • 14 cents per mile for charitable service, remaining unchanged for over 25 years due to statutory mandates.

Image 2

The calculation for the business mileage rate is based on an extensive annual analysis of both fixed and variable costs of vehicle operation. Conversely, the medical and moving rates focus solely on variable cost factors.

Note that the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) has eliminated most moving-related mileage deductions except for specific groups such as active duty members of the Armed Forces and, starting in 2026, members of the intelligence community relocating due to assignment changes.

Moreover, individuals donating time and vehicle usage for charitable purposes have the option to itemize deductions based on directly related expenses, such as fuel costs, instead of relying on the mileage rate. However, costs like general maintenance, repairs, and insurance do not qualify for deductions.

Key Considerations for Business Vehicle Use – Business owners may alternatively compute actual vehicle costs, which can prove favorable, especially with fluctuating fuel prices and dynamic depreciation laws. Bonus depreciation, which saw a return to 100% in late 2025, alongside depreciation limitations, can significantly impact this decision. However, it's vital to adhere to the stipulation that once the actual cost method involving Section 179, bonus depreciation, or MACRS is chosen, reverting to standard mileage rates is prohibited for that vehicle in successive years.

Additionally, taxpayers often overlook the option to deduct parking costs, tolls, and applicable property taxes beyond standard mileage claims.

Image 1

Employer Reimbursement – Employers may opt to compensate employees for business mileage at the standard rate, ensuring the reimbursement is non-taxable if the employee provides proper verification regarding the specifics of the business journey.

Employee Vehicle Expenses – As revised by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and further amended by the OBBBA, deductions for unreimbursed vehicle expenses no longer apply to most employees. Exceptions still exist for reservists, certain government officials, performing artists, and eligible educators, who might claim such expenses as adjustments to income.

Self-employed Individuals continue to benefit from vehicle deductions, applicable whether filing under standard mileage rates or the actual expense method, including interest on auto loans.

Heavy SUVs and Tax Strategies – Heavier SUVs over 6,000 pounds remain advantageous for tax purposes, escaping luxury auto depreciation caps and qualifying for Section 179 and bonus depreciation deductions. However, strategic planning is crucial as early disposal of such assets might necessitate recapturing part of these deductions.

For further queries on maximizing vehicle expense deductions and ensuring meticulous compliance, our office is ready to assist.

Share this article...

Sign up for our newsletter.

Each month, we will send you a roundup of our latest blog content covering the tax and accounting tips & insights you need to know.

I confirm this is a service inquiry and not an advertising message or solicitation. By clicking “Submit”, I acknowledge and agree to the creation of an account and to the and .

We care about the protection of your data.

James T. Neilson We love to chat!
Please feel free to use our Ai chat assistant or use the contact button to contact us.
Please fill out the form and our team will get back to you shortly The form was sent successfully